Redbreast, as we know it today, was relaunched in 1991 after a short hiatus. Initially, it was just the standard 12 year old, but over the years quite a few others have been added to the core range. Batch B2 / 19 has been matured in both bourbon and sherry casks. Bottled at a strength of 55.8% ABV.
Nose: vanilla. Fresh red fruits, such as strawberries and red berries. Plums, but also a hint of apricots. Milk chocolate. Then I get some spices, such as cinnamon, cloves. And straw. Then it goes back to some sweeter and fruitier notes again. Honey. Sour oranges. Vanilla custard. Caramel. With water: Seems like it’s getting spicier. I didn’t expect that, ha! Some lemons also. Green apples and more milk chocolate.
Taste: a nice thick and creamy mouthfeel. Creme Brulee. Toffee. Milk chocolate. Oranges and honey. Followed by spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of black pepper. Water makes it softer. Almonds. More towards lemons. And green apples again.
Finish: a lovely long finish with creamy caramel, vanilla and black pepper. With water: Spices again. Mocha. Oranges and creme Brulee.